Darfur: Increased Violence Demands Increased Action, Now.

Disturbing news is coming out of Darfur. Attacks on innocent civilians have increased, and threats of more violence are coming from the Government of Sudan.

President Obama and his new administration must act decisively and immediately to save innocent civilians from violence and displacement. Although many members of the new administration have spoken strongly on Darfur, we cannot take anything for granted. Our leaders must be pressured–and given the backing–to take strong action that goes beyond words. As President Obama has made it clear over and over again, it is us, regular people, that must take an active role in demanding change.

This week, Call the White House, between 9 AM and 5 PM EST, at either 202-456-1111 or 1-800-GENOCIDE, and/or the Department of State comment line at 202-647-6575 with this message (or with your own words):

“I’m calling to ask President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton to quickly and decisively address the escalating violence in Darfur. Omar al-Bashir has threatened and is now escalating attacks against civilians. The potential for massive loss of life is enormous. President Obama, please issue immediate warnings to Bashir and the government of Sudan specifying consequences of more attacks. Please also prepare an emergency response plan to address further violence.”

Call every day, and ask many friends and family to do the same. Those innocent civilians that are dying are no different than your friends and family. They deserve and have the right to a peaceful and dignified life.

Peace,
Gabriel and the SGN Team

ps. We at SGN strongly believe that individuals, groups, and organizations must step up activism and go beyond traditional advocacy actions. Phone calls and letters are still needed, but we must do more and demand more from our leaders. We will continue to explore ways to push harder and would greatly appreciate your input in to how we can do this together. Let us know at iact-info@stopgenocidenow.org.

Katie-Jay keeps i-ACT running on several levels. Much of her work entails coordinating partnerships with other grassroots organizations and implementing the campaigns developed by Gabriel and seeing through the details. She graduated from Portland State University with a BA in Sociology and a focus on Community Development. She has previously worked as a community organizer in Thailand, Guatemala, and with grassroots organizations across the United States.